9 Tech-Savvy Outdoor Entertaining Ideas

Nothing beats an outdoor party, but even the best backyard shindig comes with challenges, from incorporating music to fending off unwanted insect guests. Get the most out of your next outdoor event with these high-tech items.

CineBox Backyard Theater System

For a guaranteed “wow” effect, this inflatable screen and HD movie system can turn your yard into an outdoor theater. Just add cars for your own drive-in show, or place it behind the pool for swim-up screenings.

Big Turtle Shell

This waterproof and shockproof Bluetooth speaker can communicate with your devices from more than 30 feet away, filling your yard with music wirelessly. Take it anywhere you want to start a party: It plays for up to 16 hours on a single charge, so the music won’t stop before your guests do.

ThermaCELL Outdoor Lantern

Just because bugs live outside doesn’t mean they're invited to the shindig. Free of icky “zaps” and stinky citronella, this lantern uses a synthetic chrysanthemum scent to drive insects away while illuminating your space with LED light.

Infratech Outdoor Heaters

Traditional gas heaters can be annoying to maintain, plus they don’t always light on command. If you’ve got an outdoor area where you’d like to entertain regularly, these electric heaters are efficient and nearly unnoticeable — and they won’t crowd the space like propane-powered poles will.

Hanging Mason Jar Solar Lights

Twist-on, solar-powered lids make these jars look like they've captured fireflies. Hang them from a few branches, and they’ll light a charming path to your party.

Brookstone USB Umbrella

This umbrella not only offers guests a shady spot to relax, but it features a solar-powered USB charging station. Guests can charge their devices by the sun’s rays.

Globe Portable LED Lamp

Charge up this waterproof, cord-free orb, and let it glow anywhere you place it — even in a pool. Thanks to 52 LEDs, it can shine brightly in white, or cycle through infinite colors.

Epson PowerLite Home Cinema Projector

Movies projected on the side of your house, anyone? Tack up a white sheet and you’re good to go with this outdoor projector. This model includes HDMI connectivity, so you can plug in your favorite streaming media box or Blu-ray player and you’re good to go.

Robomow

Like a Roomba for your lawn, this app-controlled mower cruises across the green while you do other things. It even has a rain sensor, so if it picks up on inclement weather, it independently returns to its docking station.